Detroit Pistons forward-center Isaiah Stewart has been suspended for one game without pay after accumulating his sixth Flagrant Foul point of the 2024-25 NBA season. The announcement was made by Joe Dumars, the NBA’s Executive Vice President and Head of Basketball Operations.

What Led to Stewart’s Suspension?

Stewart entered Wednesday’s game against the Indiana Pacers with four Flagrant Foul points. During the second quarter of the Pistons’ 133-119 loss at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on January 29, he committed a Flagrant 2 foul and was immediately ejected with 8:45 remaining in the quarter. This foul pushed his total to six Flagrant Foul points, automatically triggering a one-game suspension under NBA rules.

Isaiah Stewart’s 2024-25 Season Performance

Before his suspension, Stewart was averaging 5.4 points per game, ranking outside the top 150 in the NBA. He was also pulling down 5.8 rebounds per game, placing him 61st in the league, and dishing out 1.7 assists per game, also ranking outside the top 150. While Stewart is primarily known for his physicality and defensive presence, his offensive numbers have been modest this season. His rebounding ranks him among solid contributors, but his overall impact has been overshadowed by his frequent foul trouble.

NBA’s Flagrant Foul Point System Explained

The NBA tracks Flagrant Fouls throughout the regular season, assigning points to each violation. Once a player’s total exceeds five points, suspensions are automatically enforced. A player at four points who commits a Flagrant 2 will receive a one-game suspension. A player at five or six points who commits a Flagrant 1 will also receive a one-game suspension, while a Flagrant 2 at this level results in a two-game suspension. Any player who accumulates seven or more Flagrant Foul points will receive an automatic two-game suspension for each additional violation.

Additional Fine for Inappropriate Gestures

Along with his suspension, Stewart has also been fined $50,000 for making inappropriate and objectionable gestures after his ejection. The NBA has been strict about enforcing sportsmanship rules, and this penalty serves as another reminder of their commitment to maintaining professionalism on the court.

What’s Next for Stewart and the Pistons?

Stewart will serve his suspension on February 1, when the Pistons host the Dallas Mavericks at Little Caesars Arena. The Pistons, already struggling this season, will have to adjust their rotation in his absence.

Did Stewart Deserve the Suspension?

Some fans argue that the NBA’s Flagrant Foul system is too strict, while others believe that players must be held accountable for excessive physicality. What do you think? Should Stewart’s punishment have been harsher, or was it too much? Let us know in the comments!